Patrons play some of the slot machines at Batavia Downs Casino in this 2010 file photo.

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The state's nine racinos Thursday supported Gov. Andrew Cuomo's casino legislation after he made changes to the bill.

The New York Gaming Association, the lobbying arm for the tracks, had opposed Cuomo's initial bill. They argued that it would have given a huge tax advantage to the four privately owned casinos that Cuomo is seeking to build.

The final bill, which was submitted late Monday, gives tax parity to the racinos if casinos are located near their facilities. It was enough to win over the racinos, who would have been a major obstacle for Cuomo as he seeks voter approval for the plan in a ...